Call Corner

Slacker

2012-02-18T23:22:00.002-05:00

I've been a total slacker with this blog. I vow to be better. I am hoping to get pictures up before the end of the month. I got a new camera, so once I learn to put those pictures on my computer I will get them on the blog.

The Best of our Annual Witch's Cafe!

2011-10-31T14:12:00.010-05:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

So, this year I got to thinking about how many fun ideas I've used over the years. So, I decided to put a few of my favorites from years past on our blog.

Boo-nanas!
These were very cute, but if you don't like coconut, then they might not be the best idea.

String Cheese fingers!
Always a hit and a staple every year!

Frankestein Pizza!
These turned out so cute, if I do say so myself!

Frankestein Kiwi!
I thought these were darling, even if the kids didn't like the taste.

Popcorn Ball Ghost
I didn't realize that the kids liked this, but Jack requested it again. Too bad I can't remember how I made him and I do remember he was a lot of work...so sorry Jack the Ghost won't be appearing again.

Donut Hole Eyeballs and Circus Peanut Pumpkins

Apple Fangs
(Sometimes I include a tongue, but I guess I didn't the year of this picture.)

AND MY ALL TIME FAVORITE THING I'VE MADE....Witch Tacos!
I've never been able to top this one, eventhough I try each year. I think this will go down in history as the best part of any Witch's cafe I'll ever do. I think they are so cute and I am happy to say that I thought of this idea all on my own. Everything else I've gotten on the internet or a book.

So stay tune for what we serve for Witch's Cafe 2011!!!

It's exhausting being so cute!

2011-10-24T11:04:00.002-05:00

Sunday was our ward's primary program. Jack never falls asleep in church, but he had a big week...so I guess after his part and a little singing he just couldn't stay awake any longer. We thought this was the cutest picture. They are usually the wiggliest kids in Sunbeams, but they couldn't make it. It also doesn't help that our church is at 1 pm. That's prime napping time for kids and me too! :-)

Babysitting Miss P

2011-10-15T08:43:00.004-05:00

So Thursday evening I got to babysit Perri, while her mom took the other two to the park and Brooklyn to tennis practice. She came in such a great mood, probably because she knew she had some fun in store for me! Look at that smile.
It started with me picking her up, only to discover that she had thrown up all over herself and her car seat. I cleaned her up and started on the car seat and then it happened again, only this time she was soaked to the bone. I changed her clothes and she was a happy baby again. Smiling and laughing...once again I am pretty sure she was laughing at me. She is sitting in my lap watching TV, when it happened...3 LARGE explosions. When I went to change her she had exploded over the new outfit I had just put on her. There was only 1 other outfit in the bag and it was a fall outfit. Now I know the months say it is fall, but Texas doesn't know that yet. It was a little too warm to put that on, so Perri and I just chilled on the couch with her only in a diaper and wrapped in her blanket. She slept and was happy as a clam. Right before it was time to go, I decided to put on the darling outfit (I believe Chy Ayn gave to her.), so she could ride home in comfort. She looked so darling and was so happy. Here are a couple of shots that I got. I realized how hard it is to take pictures of a baby when you only have 2 hands and you need them both for the camera. Plus she is starting to get a little wiggly these days.

She is such a cute, happy baby!

Golfing Date

2011-10-15T08:35:00.003-05:00

So this was the best date I've had in a LONG time and it was with a total hotty! Because Jack couldn't go to see Mary Poppins (he was really disappointed), I told him I would take him on a date where ever he wanted. He wanted to go to Crocodile Gap. So last Saturday, Jack and I headed to play miniature golf. He was so excited and so cute doing it. We played 18 holes. Now, his dad would not approve...I totally let him drag the ball with his club, start closer to the hole, or kick it with his foot. It was basically a free for all. We were the only ones on the course, so we could do whatever we wanted. It was great! He had such a good time and I got 4 holes in 1. That's never happened before. When I was telling Jack how excited I was about it, he said, "I think the wind really helped you, Aunt Nanny." I guess that was his way of saying, "You're not really that good Aunt Nanny." As we were driving home he said, "Thanks Aunt Nanny for taking me on the date. It was great!" He is a good kid.

Look at that form...he might just turn pro with a little more of my influence after all. :)

Mary Poppins with Brooklyn

2011-10-15T08:28:00.003-05:00

So this year Mary Poppins was one of the shows that came to San Antonio with the Broadway Across America series. Brooklyn saw the ticket on my fridge and was so excited to go. She wanted to "dress up really fancy" and get treats for the show. About 1/2 through the 1st Act, she turned to me and said, "When is 1/2 time?" Now that is a true Coach's child! She enjoyed the show, but I think it was still a little bit long for her. Also I think the accents were a bit hard for her to understand. Other than that...she seemed to enjoy herself.
Sorry the picture is so dark. I was illegally taking the picture with my phone, right before the play started.

Happy Birthday Kate!

2011-10-05T12:48:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday Kate! I can't believe that you are 10 years old. Boy does time fly when you are having fun and we've had lots of fun with you in our family. I'm glad you are part of our family and hope you have an amazing birthday! Wish I could be there to help you celebrate.

Fun with Brooklyn and Jack

2011-09-19T12:16:00.005-05:00

So there have been a couple of things that I've been able to do with Jack and Brooklyn lately. One day, after school, Jack and Brooklyn came over and we made cupcakes. I didn't get tons of pictures, but I couldn't help myself when I asked Jack to get something for me and he saluted me and said, "Aye, Aye Captain!" I couldn't help but laugh and snap a picture.

Another evening, I went and babysat while Britni went to take some pictures. We decided that it was time to finally use the DQ Blizzard maker that Brooklyn got for Christmas last year. We broke that sucker out and made some blizzards. The ice cream was good, but the toppings that they provided were gross! Here are Brooklyn and Jack cranking out their blizzards.

I have to say that I prefer just going to DQ and buying a blizzard, but they had fun making them.

The last event was just a date with me and Jack. Jack is finally in his big boy briefs all night long. No more pull ups for him. I told him when that day came that I would take him to Build A Bear. Joel was worried that he would pick some girlie bear. You tell me...is Jack all boy or what?
Camo, fireman bear...now that's a bear fit for a man! His name is Blaze and we had a fun time at Build a Bear.

Desperate need for rain!

2011-09-07T09:20:00.003-05:00

If you've been watching the national news, you've seen that wildfires are engulfing many parts of Texas. The worse place affected right now is Bastrop. It just so happens that Bastrop is part of our stake. As I was driving to the stake center for a church meeting, Bastrop which is off in the far distance usually seemed very close...because the horizon was covered in a heavy cloud of smoke. Normally the horizon in that area is gorgeous to look at. Instead, it was just a cloud of smoke. I tried snapping a picture to document it, but sadly my phone camera just doesn't do it justice. My heart is breaking for the families that have lost loved ones, homes, and property in one of the prettiest parts of Texas. Our stake has not been unaffected by this tragedy. Last I heard 17 families in the Bastrop ward have lost their homes. One family was getting ready to leave in a couple of months on their mission and they've lost everything. Another family, whom I have worked with 2 of their daughters and mother at camp, also lost their home. One of our counselors in our stake presidency also lost his home. Luckily the church building in Bastrop was unharmed, which is miraculous, because it was surrounded by fire. Texans are resilient and self sufficient people, but prayers for rain and the safety of those brave men and women battling these fires is much needed and greatly appreciated.

Happy Birthday MOM!

2011-08-27T22:19:00.003-05:00

Today is my mom's birthday and I feel very blessed to have her as my mom. She is such a great mom and friend. I only had 1 photo on this computer and it was one from Christmas. Regardless...my mom is the best. I sure am thankful for her and all she does for me. She is way to kind and did I mention that her grandchildren LOVE her?!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

Perri St. Clair Call has arrived!

2011-08-11T15:17:00.007-05:00

Today Perri officially joined the family. She arrived a little before 10:30 am and weighed in at 8 pounds 6 oz. She was 20 3/4 inches long. She's got tons of dark hair and we believe that at least one dimple has been spotted. I guess time will tell on that one.

I was lucky to make it to the hospital, with the kids and the grandpas just minutes after she arrived. I got to see her in all her newness and freshness.

I even got to hold her for a bit, after she was cleaned up. I love holding babies, but there is something really special and great about holding a baby fresh from heaven.

It was especially sweet seeing how excited Jack and Brooklyn were to have a new baby sister. The whole way to the hospital, Jack can't talking about how excited he was. I guess 9 months is a long time to wait to meet your sister. I can already tell that Brooklyn is going to be a great little helper.

From a family of 4 to a family of 5!

A night @ Aunt Emily's House

2011-06-30T22:08:00.002-05:00

So this summer has been SUPER HOT! One night while Brooklyn was over we decided that since it was my night to water (and we only have 1...since we are in stage 2 water restrictions) that Brooklyn might as well take advantage and run through the sprinklers. She had never done it before and she had a blast. It reminded me of summers in NM @ Grandma Call's. I didn't make her strip down to her undies, like Grandma did.

I couldn't make have Brooklyn over without a little education...so we did a science experiment. We took a jumbo, TEXAS sized marshmallow and put it in the microwave. She loved it, but was worried about us not eating it. She thought that was too wasteful.

Fun summer times!

A trip to Omaha means a quick trip to Winter's Quarters

2011-06-30T21:51:00.005-05:00

So work sent me to Nebraska and dad sent me to Winter's Quarters. I am so glad that he did...because it was truly an amazing experience. I only had about an hour before I had to be at the airport and luckily the airport is only 13 minutes from Winter Quarters. What a special spirit is here. I was just sad that I didn't bring my camera, so these pictures are from my iPhone. I went through the museum.

I spent a little time walking around the cemetery. It breaks my heart that our pioneer ancestors call that their final resting place and yet most of them don't have markers on their graves.

I got to go on the temple grounds. The temple was closed, but I still felt such a special spirit there.

I am so thankful for our pioneer heritage and those men and women that sacrificed for the gospel.

Come, come, ye saints, no toil nor labor fear;
But with joy wend your way.
Though hard to you this journey may appear,
Grace shall be as your day.
Tis better far for us to strive
Our useless cares from us to drive;
Do this, and joy your hearts will swell -
All is well! All is well!
And should we die before our journey's through,
Happy day! All is well!
We then are free from toil and sorrow, too;
With the just we shall dwell!
But if our lives are spared again
To see the Saints their rest obtain,
Oh, how we'll make this chorus swell-
All is well! All is well!

Happy Father's Dad, to OUR dad!

2011-06-19T16:41:00.003-05:00

I have such a great dad. He is always there for us and we know that no matter what we do, he is our #1 fan. He is always supportive in everything we do. The grandkids adore him and always want to play with him. He is good to lay on the floor and play trains or cars with the boys. Shoot at cups with the dart guns with the kids or let the girls style his hair in a game of beauty parlor. We sure are glad that you are our dad. Love ya!

Happy Birthday Joel!

2011-06-09T09:45:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday Buddy! I only have pictures from this winter of Joel...but I thought I would share them anyway. I hope that you have a great birthday! We are sure glad that you are part of our family. I know we tease about you bring the "crop failure," but really we are glad to have you. You make us laugh and sometimes cry (when you wrestle too rough)...but we love you anyway. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Sea World with the Nieces and Nephews

2011-05-17T21:57:00.004-05:00

We had a blast at Sea World when the Brights came into town. I didn't take lots of pictures, but I thought I would post the few I did take. Our day got started with a bang...by feeding the dolphins. The kids really loved it and I have to say that it was really cool. They got really close.
We saw shows, ate food, and rode rides. Jack and Bowen were hilarious on the pirate ship ride. Right before we went down the steep incline, Jack and Bowen grabbed on to Stephen's hand. Jack laughed the whole way down and Bowen...like me, closed his eyes the whole way down. Regardless, we had a great time.

Happy Mother's Day!!!

2011-05-08T00:32:00.002-05:00

I've got the greatest mother in the world! She's not just a mom, but a best friend who is always there for you. I don't have any pictures on my computer, but I'm going to hunt some down and post them later. I sure love her and can't imagine having anyone different as my mom. Hope it's a great day for ya mom!

The Official Royal Wedding Tea Party

2011-04-29T22:56:00.011-05:00

I don't know if it's because we lived in England and have always loved Princess Diana or because I remember watching the Royal Wedding of 1981, like it was yesterday, or because I am a girl and there is just something magical about being a Princess...but I have been all about the Royal Wedding this year. I was telling Brooklyn all about when my friend invited Ros and I over in 1981 to watch Princess Di and Prince Charles get married. Our friends had a a tea party. It was so much fun. As I told Brooklyn about this, she thought a tea party sounded like a grand idea. I decided that I would have her over, after school on Friday and we would have tea, crumpets, biscuits, and cucumber sandwiches. Jack was so excited about it and really wanted to come (even though we all told him it would be boring and that it was pretty much a girl thing). Brooklyn and I decided we couldn't leave him out of the "Rolo Wedding" or "Tea and Trumpets!" (to quote Jack.)

The Spread...Apple Herb Tea, Crumpets (cream & jam), cucumber sandwiches, strawberries, and bicuits (HobNobs).

The making of our crowns! We decorated crowns while we watched the processional into West Minster Abby.

Posing with the TV, after we have finished our crowns.

Here are Princess Brooklyn and Prince Jack enjoying an afternoon tea, while watching the Royal wedding in the background. It was especially great because Jack and Brooklyn both tried to talk like they were English...very proper. At one time Jack said, "Pass the strawberries mate!" When I asked him about it, he said..."Isn't that what they say?"

After tea we watched the processional out of the cathedral and on to Buckingham Palace. Jack decided that he wanted to be one of the soliders (like Prince William and Harry). Brooklyn decided that she needed to wear a white dress (luckily I had a white skirt I could rig around her).

Jack decided he wanted to go outside and play and was on his way out the door until he heard Brooklyn say, "Oh, they just kissed!" Jack came running back into the room and said, "Ah man, I missed it. Put it back, so I can see them kiss." He then came and watched a replay of the 1st kiss and then enjoyed the 2nd kiss. At one point he turned to Brooklyn and said, "Do you want me to kiss you?" Brooklyn just busted out laughing.

Needless to say, watching the Royal Wedding with these two was much more fun then it was watching it at 3 am this morning. Yes I did set my alarm and I did watch. I couldn't miss it. The 2nd time with Brooklyn and Jack was just as exciting!

I can't have a post about the Royal Wedding without mentioning the hats! Yes, Brooklyn loved pointing out the ones she loved and the ones she didn't! Jack had to get in on it too. As Princess Beatrice came on screen, he yelled, "Oh that's my faborite!" What do you think? (Hint...Beatrice is the one in the neutral color!)

Softball Queen

2011-04-25T12:27:00.004-05:00

Brooklyn is playing t-ball/softball this year and she is so fun to watch. I'm lucky enough that I get to go see her practice and play in a game or two. She is quite the little player. I especially love when she runs all over the field to get a ball. Who needs a position, when you can run fast! :)

Jack's a pretty good sport to go and watch his sister. He cheers her on, makes friends with the other siblings, and sometimes just acts a little goofy!

Happy Birthday Ros!

2011-04-11T09:13:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday! I hope that your day is a great one. We sure are glad you are part of our family. Sadly...I don't have any pictures of you on my computer and I am too lazy to go get some to load. So...instead know that I love you and I'm thinking of you today.

The 1st Annual La Pascua De Colonia Dublan...Call Family Holiday

2011-03-13T23:13:00.003-05:00

The Passover of Colonial Dublan

Early morning on Sunday, March 12, 1916, word reached the saints in Colonia Dublan that Pancho Villa and his army had attacked Columbus, NM and was heading towards Dublan. "Word came to us that he was coming to the Colonies and would continue his slaughtering of all Americans." ("Life Story of Anson Bowen Call", pg 28.) Grandpa Call (the Bishop) called an emergency priesthood meeting to discuss what should be done. It was decided that Grandpa Call and a couple of other brethren would drive over to Colonia Juarez to ask Stake President Joseph C. Bently for his advice. At about 8:00 PM, Grandpa Call and party returned to Dublan. Upon their return, Grandpa Call told the saints that had quickly gathered around them what Pres. Bently had said. "President Bently told us that we know the conditions here better than he, and to do as we think best." ("Life Story of Anson Bowen Call", pg. 28.) Various proposals were presented and discussed. When all opinions had been voiced and discussed it was Grandpa Call's turn to speak. "Standing thoughtfully for a few moments, he than raised his head and looked around at the crowd of anxious faces. 'Let us all go home,' he said quietly. 'I feel impressed that we should go back to our homes, pray, blow out all our lights, and go to bed'. There was a moment of stunned silence; then one man spoke: 'That's a hell of a thing to tell us to do!' he said.'" ("Anson Bowen Call - Bishop of Colonia Dublan", pg.410.) The saints followed the inspired counsel of their Bishop and did as he advised. Early morning on Monday, March 13, Villa's army approached Dublan. They arrived on the outskirts of of town about 3:00 AM. They then turned east and rode away without entering or disturbing the town. None of the saints knew they had come and gone. Later evidence was discovered on how close Villa's army had been. Later it was also learned that Villa and his men had seen camp fires and armed men walking around the town. The colonists understood that something truly miraculous had happened on their behalf. The next Sunday, March 19, 1916, Bishop Call presided at a special assembly to give thanks to God for His divine intervention.

-----We celebrated the 1st Annual Call Holiday on Saturday night. We ate dinner on the porch and had a bonfire in mom and dad's backyard. During the bonfire, dad told us all this story. You should have seen Jack's eyes. They got big as Papa talked about "the Bandits." We then had s'mores (Can't have a bonfire without s'mores!) This is a great idea to help generations to remember the example of obedience and faith that was set for each of us by our ancestors.

Grandpa Call...I think Uncle Don looks the most like him, but then again maybe it's just the mustache! :)

Pancho Villa...in this story he wasn't a fan of the Mormon's, but other stories say that they actually had a mutual respect for each other.

He's older today...Happy Birthday DAD!

2011-02-22T10:12:00.004-05:00

Today dad is another year older...we won't say how old, because no one would believe us. He doesn't look a day over 40! :)
Dad is a great father, papa, brother, and friend. I appreciate all that he does for all of us, but especially for me. He always puts his family first. He loves his grand kids and they love him.

This past weekend I spent Saturday with my dad in Fort Worth. We had such a great time. He sacrificed a whole day to go with me. What a great dad he is! Can't wait to spend many more birthdays with him!

BYU -vs- TCU...basketball game

2011-02-21T23:42:00.005-05:00

On Saturday dad and I traveled up to Fort Worth to see BYU beat TCU. It was great to see the Cougars, especially getting to watch Jimmer Ferdette. He played awesome, eventhough he was double and triple teamed at times. Dad and I got there pretty early, so we went to lunch and then walked around the campus. It is actually a very nice campus. We couldn't leave without taking pictures with the TCU horned frog.

There were about 10 BYU fans to every 1 TCU fan at the game. It felt a little like being in Provo only their arena is a little on the smallish side. We watched the warm up and then the game started.

The whole team played great and it was a fun experience.

The BYU fans came armed with many hilarious signs. The best one said, "TCU you can keep your frog, we already have our Prince - Jimmer Ferdette." The worst sign we saw said, "I'd go gay for your Jimmer!" Needless to say there were some signs that were a little sacreligious!

The only thing that bugged was at the end when some very rude TCU fan/student held up a sign to all that BYU fans that said, "At least we aren't Mormons." I felt like that was beyond low class and rude. I thought for the most part BYU fans were polite and respectful...thank goodness!

Kitchen Aide!

2011-02-21T23:39:00.003-05:00

This year for Christmas I got a Kitchen Aide. I used it for the 1st time with my special helper...Brooklyn. We made Red Velvet cupcakes. I think they turned out pretty good, at least that's what Brooklyn said. She was the official taste tester. She said that she thinks that might be what she wants to be when she grows up.

Let's Rodeo San Antonio!

2011-02-21T23:36:00.002-05:00

This year I went with a group of my friends to see Train at the San Antonio Rodeo. They gave a great concert. Sadly we were WAY up high, so my pictures don't do it justice. Also I loved the Rodeo part, but I didn't get any pictures of it. :( I guess there is always next year.

What a SNOW DAY in Texas?

2011-02-21T23:25:00.004-05:00

Yep, that's exactly what happened at the end of January. The news dubbed it "Artic Blast 2011!" I'm not sure that many people would agree that it was truly an "Artic Blast" but it was pretty cold. Schools and works closed, but when I woke up there wasn't much sticking to the grass, but the streets and cement were covered with a little snow and a nice layer of ice. Here is outside my house.

Thanks to my steep driveway, Brooklyn, Jack and Joel enjoyed some sledding. Sadly working from home means that there is no such thing as a "snow day." While I was on a conference call, Joel and the kids had some fun sledding down my driveway on container lids and in my recycle box. And to think that my dad thought my driveway wasn't worth anything. This year I think Brooklyn, Jack and Joel would totally disagree.

Brooklyn also loved making snow angels.

Brooklyn's Spa Birthday Party

2011-02-21T23:17:00.003-05:00

This year Brooklyn had a Spa party for her 6th Birthday. She had several friends over and they enjoyed a day at the spa. The girls had chocolate facials done by my mom and I. Britni and her mom did mani/pedi's. Each of the girls had their hair done by Aunt Ducky (Stephani) and a good friend, Lauren. I think the girls had a great time. They were so funny. The party ended with cake and a pinata!

Christmas Catch-up

2011-02-21T23:10:00.003-05:00

This year we spent Christmas in South Carolina with 3 darling Bright children. I didn't take very many pictures, but the ones I got were from Christmas morning.

Bowen has informed me that when I am old, he will live with me and take care of me. Thank goodness for this darling child. He is such a sweetheart. One night when we were out for pizza he wanted to share a drink.

Worst things than being single...Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T11:26:00.003-05:00

Looking at this video clip, I'm glad I'm not dating one of these weirdos! I'm sure by now they have all found their soul mates. :)

I demand a REFUND!

2011-02-09T00:34:00.004-05:00

The Daily Beast came up with a list of the TOP 50 cities best for LOVE!

#1. San Antonio, TX
#2. Milwaukee, WI
#3. Austin, TX
#4. Virginia Beach, VA
#5. San Diego, CA
#6. Boston, MA
#7. New Orleans, LA
#8. Hartford, CT
#9. Cleveland, OH
#10. Portland, OR

***Well, I'm writing a letter to the mayor, the govenor, the President, or someone and demanding a refund. How can I grow up in the #1 best city for love and still be single. All the years I've paid taxes...I want it back. I want it all back! (What's that you say...we don't pay taxes in Texas, well I'm talking about the sales tax in SA!) I demand a refund of 20+ years of paying sales tax in the city of San Antonio. It's the least this city can do for me, for not living up to the LOVE hype!

In case you were wondering...rounding out the bottom of the list were the following:

#41. Dallas, TX
#42. Charlotte, NC
#43. Indianapolis, IN
#44. Richmond, VA
#45. Miami, FL
#46. Cincinnati, OH
#47. Tampa, FL
#48. Riverside, CA
#49. Detroit, MI
#50. Jacksonville, FL

You can check out the full list here: http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2011-02-06/50-best-cities-for-love/2/

Happy Birthday Brooklyn (on Thursday)

2011-01-29T11:29:00.002-05:00

I can't believe that Brooklyn is 6 years old. Boy does time fly when you are having fun. I sure wish these nieces and nephews would stop getting older. I am so glad that I have had the chance, the last few years to live near by and watch this sweet little girl grow up. I love getting the chance to have her come over, especially on Sunday's, when I know she is just trying to avoid taking a nap...but still we have fun. I love when my phone rings and the voice on the other line says, "Aunt Emily are you busy?" I love the way she loves her cousins Kate and Clair - even though they live far away and don't get to see each other often. She's always planning and trying to figure out how to get together with them.

Although Thursday was Brooklyn's official birthday, she is having her party today. Already her mom and Grammy are getting ready for 6- 5/6 year old girls to come over for a spa party. (Clair had one of these and Brooklyn has wanted one ever since.) Mimi and I will be in charge of doing facials. Cucumbers were requested for their eyes by the b-day girl. Hair will be done and nails too. It will be a great time and I'll try to remember to take pictures and post them too.

Happy Birthday Brooklyn!

Bringing in 2011

2011-01-04T22:45:00.005-05:00

This year I decided to do something different and new for New Years Eve and New Years. I went with a group of friends and made some new friends. Twelve people from the Austin and San Antonio area rented a house on the beach of Port Aransas. It was tons of fun. I didn't know everyone at first, but I had a great time. We toasted in the new year with NYC and then we went out on the beach, made a bonfire, had smores, played with sparklers, and watched fireworks.

New Year's Day we spent at the beach flying kites. Scott was very patient with me and let's just say that I can mark professional kite flying off my list of things to be when I grow up. I was terrible at it. I was pretty sure that I was going to break Scott's kite. I didn't break it, but I didn't exactly fly it every good either.

We also went to this shop and took a picture with this humongous shark. You walked through the mouth and out the tail into the shop. It was cool.

All in all it was a great weekend. I had a really nice time.

Visit with Mimi, Papa, and Aunt - What's-her-name?

2010-12-30T22:58:00.010-05:00

My kiddos just love their Mimi and Papa!

So happy together - but not all happy to be taking pictures! :)

Handsome Papa - can't you just see the Call charm!

Bowen was basically Aunt Emily's shadow! However, he had some trouble remembering her name!

He still LOVES her - and has plans to live with her when she is old. He said they would live in a RV and park in movie theater parking lots every night and go see a movie. He will be a FOX news man during the day!

He really loves her, just doesn't know her name half the time!

Kate Kate chilling out!

Clair on her Papa's knee! They are practically twins! Call genes here for sure!

My wonderful parents! Thanks for coming mom and dad! We LOVED having you!

The day after they left Kate came downstairs and said, "Mom, I miss mimi and papa and Aunt Emily! My room smells just like mimi and makes me miss them more!"

Have to have the silly photo - of course!

Now it's just the five of us! I really miss you guys being here! It was fun! Thank you so much for coming! Love ya mucho mucho!

Christmas Morning

2010-12-30T22:51:00.002-05:00

My sweet, sleepy but excited kiddos waiting to go downstairs to see what Santa brought them! It was a good Christmas and the kids must have made the nice list, because they got what they asked for!

Quilting @ Christmas

2010-12-07T23:46:00.004-05:00

So I got this bright idea that the Young Women should come over and we should tie a quilt. How was Grandma ever so patient teaching me? We got the quilt done, but it wasn't easy and it didn't go as smoothly as I'd hoped. I have to say that I missed having Grandma guide me in getting the quilt ready. I don't think it was really up to par with the way Grandma did it.

I have to say that getting out that quilt frame made me a little teary...thinking about Grandma. I had lots of good times quilting with her.

Christmas Traditions

2010-12-04T01:33:00.004-05:00

It's that time of year again. We did our annual Gingerbread construction night. The boys did a train and the girls did a house. As always it was great fun, but we've learned that papa is the best at putting the things together. I was in charge of putting the house together and it kept falling apart. At the end of the night, as I was taking pictures of the final products, I declared the girls as the "winners!" Jack completely melted down. Yes, he is that competitive. I had to then declare the boys the winner of the gingerbread trains. That made him happy. We've decided that next year we are using graham crackers and everyone is doing there own and we will make a real competition of it. :)

Tangled in 3D

2010-11-28T23:31:00.004-05:00

The day after Thanksgiving we went to see the movie Tangled. It was such a cute movie. I really wanted to see it in 3D, because I had never done that before. It was pretty neat. The kids loved the glasses, well Jack got about 3/4 through the movie and decided that they kind of hurt his head and he took them off. They rest of us kept them on and enjoyed seeing the new Disney princess in 3D.

Here is the whole gang, except for me and Brit. We were there, just not in the picture. I especially liked Jack and Papa. They look really cool!

There was only 1 thing about the movies that was missing...the Brights! We sure wish they could have joined us.

More of Clair

2010-11-16T10:04:00.003-05:00

Clair's Violin Photo Shoot

2010-11-16T09:40:00.003-05:00

Friday Night Lights

2010-11-03T09:20:00.002-05:00

Football is KING in Texas. Most Friday nights you can catch us all at a Judson football game. This has been a really great season and this weekend the district games come to a close. It will be PLAYOFF season! YAY!

Annual Halloween Lunch...well sort of!

2010-10-28T17:41:00.008-05:00

So this year, do to crazy weekend schedules and Brooklyn being in school full time we opted for a Halloween after school snack party. Brooklyn came as a peacock and Jack was a Jack in the Box. Both were darling.

We had a nice little spread.

We had popcorn ball ghosts, egg monsters, kiwi-steins, monster toes, and big mouths. All was yummy, but the popcorn ball ghost was the hit of the afternoon. My favorite was the kiwi-steins, but the kids did not like them.

We decorated felt pumpkins and painted pictures with edible paint onto brownies. Those turned out lovely.

Can you guess which 3 are Brooklyn's and which 3 are Jack's? Brooklyn's is a "brewja" - witch in Spanish...no clue if I'm spelling it correctly, a jack-o-lantern, and a vampire. Jack's are all race cars. I guess he didn't quite understand the Halloween part of the assignment. :)

My favorite part of the afternoon was watching them dive into the popcorn ball ghost. I turned around only to find them each head first in the ghost. Yummy!

The only thing missing was 3 little Bright children. Maybe one day we will all live close enough to have a BIG Halloween lunch together.

I have to say that I was a little disappointed in myself this year. Visit my post about last year's Halloween lunch and you will understand. I wasn't nearly as creative...Ros said, "This is your rebuilding year." I guess that's true...I've got to start planning now for next year. As Brooklyn was getting in the car to leave, she said, "Thanks Aunt Emily, and don't forget to do this again next year!" So she is already planning too. :)

Tie-dying this summer

2010-10-26T21:49:00.002-05:00

Brooklyn had been wanting to learn to tie-dye, so the weekend before school started we got a handy-dandy kit and went out in the back yard and tie-dyed 2 shirts and an apron. It was fun, but a little messy.

Fun in the Florida Sun

2010-10-26T21:44:00.003-05:00

I spent 2 weeks in August and 1 week in October in Florida. August was humid and hot, but I really enjoyed October. In October we stayed right on the beach...which was heavenly. I loved running each evening on the beach. I could get use to that.

Here is a picture of me and 3 of my co-workers. Can you tell that one of these feet is not like the others?

I almost stepped on this lovely washed up on the beach Jelly fish. glad I didn't step on it.

Happy Birthday Kate!

2010-10-05T11:23:00.002-05:00

Sadly I only have the pictures on my phone...so that's not a lot and they aren't very good quality, but I still wanted to acknowledge that today is a celebration of something great! The day I became an AUNT! 9 years ago today Kate came into our lives and our family. We couldn't have been happier! I hope you have a great birthday. Wish we could be there again this year!

Cute Halloween Craft

2010-10-01T00:06:00.003-05:00

I love Halloween and I love to decorate my house. I decided to make a new decoration with my favorite candy to decorate with, but never will I let one pass through my lips. Candy corn are cute, but nasty!

Here is a picture up close.

I like them, but they are delicate. I hope they can make it to next year.

Mani/Pedi Time

2010-09-23T23:52:00.003-05:00

So a while ago, my mom took Kate and Clair for a pedicure. When she got back from South Carolina she told Brooklyn about it. Brooklyn has been dying to get one ever since. She simply adores Kate and Clair and wants to do everything that they do. The start of school seemed like a good enough reason to have a spa afternoon. Mom, Britni, and I watched as Brooklyn got a little mani/pedi pampering. She really seemed to enjoy it. The pictures are not the best quality...they are taken with my iPhone. I have more pictures to post later. I need to be better about posting things.

Our last summer hurah at the beach!

2010-08-13T11:18:00.004-05:00

At Myrtle Beach enjoying the end of summer! Clair at the beach on our first morning! Kate looking for a great beach find!

Bowen working on the Bright sand castle!

The sunrise the first morning!

The kids loved playing in the sand and the waves. We had so much fun. We can't wait to go back in a couple months and enjoy a less crowded beach!

"I feel like a REAL woman!"

2010-07-29T17:27:00.004-05:00

That is what Brooklyn said to me, as we were having a "Spa afternoon." We started with making chocolate cookies in the easy bake oven. Then I gave Brooklyn a french manicure (only because I didn't have any other colors). Then i put make up on her and did her hair. As I was putting make up on...she said, "I feel like a REAL woman!" I busted out laughing. She's already gorgeous, but look at the heart breaker that came out at the end.

FYI...we also worked on our minds, by practicing reading. She's not just all beautify...she's brains too! :)

Camping at Devils Fork and Hiking too!

2010-07-17T22:18:00.004-05:00

Here are some photos from the rest of our camping trip including two hikes...one to white water falls and one to stump house mountain tunnel. Yummy camp food - this was our hot dog dinner and I made a yummy pineapple upside down cake in our new dutch oven! I love that thing!

This is the white water falls gang!

I seriously have the most beautiful kids...I just love taking pictures of them!

Now on to the stump house mountain tunnel. There is the enterance behind Bowen and Stephen! Such a cool place- literally!

Our long weekend trip ended on a bad note - Kate got bite by a spider at some point. Her ankel got huge and she couldn't even walk on it. It was red and swollen and tender to the touch. I had to take her to the doc and they put her on heavy antibiotics. Luckly after about 3 days on the meds we started to see improvement!

A day at Beautiful Lake Jocassee

2010-07-16T16:04:00.004-05:00

As soon as school was out we headed off to camp with some of our neighbors for a long weekend! We were lucky to discover that some good friends of ours from church were planing on being on the lake near our camp site with their boat and sea-do. They were SO kind and great examples of good members of the church! They incited us all to join them on the lake and boated us out to a little island where they'd set up a shade tent in a little cove. Here is Clair riding off to the island with Brother Taylor - I think Clair is going to be our thrill seeker! She didn't' hesitate to jump on the sea-do and wanted to go faster! Just look at that lake - isn't it beautiful! Here is Brother Smith with the first of three boats full to ferry over to the island! Kate wanted to ride in the boat - NOT on the sea-do!

Now Bowen's turn on the sea-do!

Here we are on the island...the kids plated in the water and in the sand and just had a blast!

Bowen REALLY liked the sand! He also really liked taking a ride in the little kayak.

Clair and her little friend Zoe loved the rube ride! They kept their thumbs up to go faster the whole time!

Here is Clair after the tube ride - at which time she proclaimed -"This is the best day of my whole life!"

Kate rode on the purple scarier tube, but had the protection of her favorite YW from church, Alexis! I am so glad she has good girls to look up to that are kind and considerate!

Clair got her first sting - a wasp we think. She was "uncomfortable" for a long while...but later she said, "Even though I got stung, it was still the best day of my life!" So, no harm done I guess!

The weather got a little stormy - but man I love this place! Now the Bright family has been bit by the lake bug and we long to have a boat of our own!

Kate and 2nd Grade Awards Day

2010-07-16T15:54:00.003-05:00

We were so proud of Kate and all her hard work this year. She really shined at 2nd grade award day! She won several medals for placing in the PTA Reflections contest...she placed in photography, writing, and art. Here is Mrs. Parker (principal) giving her another medal and a big hug! She also won other awards for jump rope for heart, St Jude's math marathon, and the Governors reading award...here is her whole class receiving the reading award they earned!

We were also proud that Kate earned the 2nd grade female music student of the year as well as principals honor roll for making all A's!

Way to go Kate - we are so proud!

Over half over!

2010-07-12T15:52:00.024-05:00

The year is over half way done. Can you believe it? I can't. Time sure flies when you are having fun or at least when you are busy. I wanted to post a few things that I have done since December.

January found me in Tennessee (no pictures...my trip was too quick!), Philly (which I loved all the historical stuff. I got in a day early, so I could walk where our founding fathers walked.

The next week found me in Sacramento for a conference. I was disappointed that I didn't see Arnold at the CA state capitol. No terminator for me!

February took me to Utah.
I spent Valentine's day with my cousin KC and her family...great family and excellent food - what more could you ask for! I then headed to St. George for a much needed few days a Red Mountain Spa. It was delightful. I went with a co-worker. We had a blast. Brace yourselves...I went hiking! I know what was I thinking...but it wasn't hot and it was actually very beautiful.
I also traveled to Colorado for a quick meeting. Nothing exciting with that trip.

March brought me to Iowa. This was actually a very welcomed visit. I came in a day early, so that I could get to spend a Sunday with one of my most favorite college roommate Stephanie and her family. She has the most adorable 3 kids, with a new addition now. It was so much fun to see her and meet her children and husband. They were so hospitable and welcoming. I have to say it was a highlight of the first part of my year. The only thing that was a negative was that I didn't take one picture. I can't believe it...I don't think I even had my camera - what was I thinking! Oh well, it was a great visit. Iowa was actually a pretty amazing state. Brooklyn and I also went to see a couple of plays at the Children's theater. The best was Pinkalicious! It was great and we had such a fabulous time.

April started out in Oklahoma. Nothing exciting, just an over night trip. One of these visits to Oklahoma City I really want to go to the Oklahoma City memorial. I hear it's a site to see. I spent the middle of the month in Hawaii. This was of course for work, but it had some exciting parts. I spent the first 2 days in Honolulu. It was gorgeous, of course. I didn't get to lay out or anything, but it was still nice. I then spent a day and a night in Maui. What a beautiful island. I was just sorry that I didn't get to see anything except for the resort where I stayed and the where the conference was at. I spent my last night and day in Kauai. I've been there before, but it always takes my breath away. It's such a beautiful island. It's really hard to say which is my favorite island, because they are all so great.
After a couple of days home, I headed to San Diego and it was gorgeous. Oddly enough, my dad was in San Diego for work too. We got to eat lunch one of the days. I walked along the Pier and saw lots of Navy memorials and a place dedicated to Bob Hope adn the USO. It was a neat memorial.

From San Diego I headed to Indiana, where a co-worker was kind enough to take me in for the night before heading to Chicago. My co-workers home is an old farm house and her family was so great. They all came over for brunch to meet me. It was nice. I was in Chicago for 4 days at a conference. Henry Winkler...you know the Fonz was there signing books. My company publishes his children's books. The only really exciting thing I did was go to a Cubs game. It was pretty exciting, but very cold.
Oh yeah...I also ate Chicago deep dish pizza.

Sorry for those that love it, but honestly it doesn't compare to NYC pizza. Lucky for me that was my next stop.

I ended April and started May off in NYC with a sisters weekend. We had a glorious time. We ate, played, ate, walked, slept (a very little), ate some more and crammed as much of the city in as we could. We saw two Broadway plays...In the Heights and A little Night music. Both were good, but I LOVED a Little Night Music with Katherine Zeta Jones and Angela Landsbury.

I only spent a couple of days home from NYC before heading to Philly again. I was only there a couple of days, but I got to see the Patomic River and see the Washington crossing area. That part of the country is so full of history. I loved it.

Although I enjoy seeing bits and pieces of the world, there is no place like home...so thankfully most of May was spent at home. I did do an overnight trip in Oklahoma again - very quick trip.

In May I was called to be the Young Women's President, so that meant that my summer was going to be very busy. We did a temple trip, right at the beginning of the summer. We are a small group, but mighty in spirit! (At least that's what I tell the girls.) It started with Youth Conference in June. It was really great. I enjoyed it and I enjoyed watching the YW interact with others and grow. June got better with a visit from the Brights. It was great to spend a full week and a bit with them. I was only sad that it couldn't have been longer. I loved the beginning of the trip to see Kate, Clair, Bowen, and Brooklyn play with each other. We even spent a morning at the jumping castle place in the mall. More fun for the kids then for me and Ros.
There was just one thing missing...little Jack. Brooklyn and I had to head off just a few days after the Brights arrived to head to Utah. I had a work conference in Park City and Brooklyn had to meet up with her parents. I love Utah in the summer. The weather is gorgeous. I don't know what it is, but there is just something about driving into the valley and seeing that big "Y" on the mountain. It almost makes me a little giddy! I love the spirit of the Y! It was great seeing family and spending time with cousins/aunts/uncles. I just wish it could have been more time. One of the days, before heading to Park City for work I went with Brooklyn, Jack and Britni to the Bean Museum, at BYU and the Creamery. Gosh I love that BYU ice cream.

I ended my month in Denver at another conference. It's a lovely city, but really it's hard to see it when you are staying at a hotel, with no car and busy all day long.

It's only the beginning of July, but already it's been full of excitment. I spent 4 vacation days...brace yourself...camping! It was girls camp last week and I was lucky enough to get to go. Let me just dispell any rumors - YW camp is no walk in the park. It was hot and sticky, with lots of rain...which means mud and humidity. We did real camping...tent and all. Here is a picture of us having a relaxing cool mask to try to beat the heat, during ward time. I enjoyed working with the girls and getting to know the girls in our ward and the stake much better. Although I always baulk about going, I always end up having fun at the end, but I'm glad I have a whole year until the next camp! :) The theme was Anchored in Christ and our stake did an excellent job with this camp.

Phew! That's a lot of stuff. Hopefully it wasn't too boring to read.

If it's not Scottish...It's Crap!

2010-06-09T07:59:00.002-05:00

We decided to go check out the opening parade for the Greenville Scottish Games. It was a fun parade with lots of bagpipes and a REAL prince! Here are the girls. Clair's friend Emily joined us since her sister was having surgery on her elbow. Here they are waiting for the parade to start!

Daddy and Bowen are waiting too!

Doesn't this dude look authentic!

Some bagpipes! LOVE THEM!

This little guy is starting young!

He could be protecting some castle on the Scottish moors!

Here he is...Prince Edward. When I asked Clair, "Isn't he handsome?" She said, "NOOOO - He is OLD!"

Stephen informed the kids..."He puts his pants on one at time just like I do!" I was excited to see him! I made sure all the kids got a good look at him! But laws I know he was hot in that thick expensive suite of his!

Clair's Kindergarten Graduation

2010-06-08T10:19:00.002-05:00

With school coming to an end...the Kindergarten had their special Kindergarten graduation! They sang several songs, and then each child's name was called and they received a certificate of completion from Kindergarten. Here they are singing "School is Cool" Clair is on the top left 4 or 5 over! Clair hugging Mrs. Williams after her name was called!

Clair getting her certificate from Mrs. McConaghy. (Sorry for the blur, I CANNOT get good pics in the cafeteria!)

After the group ceremony we went outside with just Clair's class. The kids had been watching the butterfly life cycle and now it was time to let the butterflies go...get the symbolism. It was cute!

Clair did NOT want school to end. She says she wants to be in Kindergarten FOREVER! Thanks to her teachers for making school so enjoyable for her! She learned a lot this year!

Strawberries!

2010-05-23T13:20:00.002-05:00

We wanted to go pick strawberries for FHE - but the weather didn't want us to. So we had to wait a few days. We invited our friends to join us. We picnicked and then picked strawberries. Kate showing off a perfect strawberry!

Clair having fun!

Bowen sampling the goods!

The kiddos filling their baskets with strawberries!

We picked four big buckets. I made three batches of jam, two pies, strawberry turnovers, and three batches of strawberry syrup, plus sliced, sugared, and froze some too! I love strawberry season!

Kate wins at District

2010-05-23T13:10:00.002-05:00

Kate won two awards on the District level for Reflections... Honorable mention in photography - "The Bee and Flower"

Second Place in Literature - "Beautiful Places"

Way to go Kate. We are so proud of you!

Greatest Weekend in NYC

2010-05-23T12:36:00.004-05:00

A long awaited weekend in New York with Emily, finally happened! We started the trip with Chy and her family. I feel in love with those sweet girls and had a blast playing with those cutie-pies! (Bailey was on a field trip so we missed her and Shane was working hard to bring home the bacon, so we missed him too!) Here is a quick photo before the school bus came! Lots of our trip was planned around all the yummy NYC food! Our first food stop was NYC pizza of course! We had lunch at Lombardi's....it was so yummy!

Then dessert at Rice to Riches...a rice pudding place. If you think you don't like rice pudding, try this stuff and you will.

Emily and a lego batman at FAO Schwartz

Gray's Papaya - best hot dogs!

My first Pinkberry - but it would NOT be my last!

Natural History Museum - I gave him gum-gum!

A Monet at the Met!

The best grilled corn in the universe! I dream about this stuff!

And the final Pinkberry!

We did SO much this weekend. We also saw two plays "In the Heights" and "A Little Night Music" - thanks Em. We avoided a car bomb in Time Square and we are sure we bought a T-shirt from the good guy who reported the suspicious car about 30 minutes before he reported it! It was a great week. I had the time of my life with the best sister on the planet! Thanks Em for sharing NYC with me!

Turkey Lurkey Warning!!

2010-04-13T17:07:00.001-05:00

WARNING - ALL TURKEY'S IN THE UPSTATE OF SC - TURKEY CRAVING GUNMAN ON THE PROWL - KNOWN TO USE TURKEY CALLS AND DECOYS - THIS HUNTER IS THOUGHT TO BE ARMED AND DANGEROUS - DO NOT APPROACH - BEWARE!

Easter

2010-04-13T16:51:00.003-05:00

Easter - my favorite time of year! This year we decided to give the community egg hunt a try - no photos from the actual event, I was too busy trying to keep an eye on my kids. It was our first and will be our LAST! Talk about dog eat dog! It was like black Friday training for little kids! Nope - Stephen and I didn't like it! The kids seemed to like it OK! However, they sure looked cute! The other great thing about Easter is new clothes!
Here is beautiful Kate in the dress that Mimi and Papa got her, but Uncle Joel picked it out!

Here is handsome Bowen boy, looking so GQ good!

And here is sweet Clair in her purple dress from Mimi and Papa!

And here are my three beautiful kiddos! Don't they look so springy?

Happy Easter! Happy Spring! Everyone!

Call cousins come a' callin'!

2010-04-13T16:44:00.003-05:00

It was too much excitement for one day - first mom and dad come. Then we got a surprise visit from Chy and Shane and their girls!

The two Clair(e)s! Instant buddies!

Bowen and Jane trying to get in to the cookies! All the kiddos!

The cousins!

The kids playing!

Thanks for stopping by! It was so fun to see you all! Our home is always open to our cool cousins!

Mimi and Papa in town!

2010-04-13T16:38:00.003-05:00

Mom and Dad were such a huge help when they came to visit us for spring break! They totally loaded up the truck and brought lockers for Bowen's room and all the furniture for Kate's room! Our dad sure knows how to load a truck! He even had cool homemade sides for his truck! Thanks for all your hard work!

Peacock Strides for Babies 5K

2010-03-13T10:47:00.002-05:00

Kate ran her first 5K today! She did SO well! But I admit, I totally held her back. She was ahead of me the whole race. I kept calling up for her to stay where I could see her. The race was so hilly! I was dying trying to keep up with her and run the killer hills! At one point she did waited for me. I said, "Oh you are so sweet to wait for your old mom." She said, "My hoddie zipper is stuck and I didn't want to cross the street without you." So, I fixed the zipper and we crossed the street and off she ran. Then we came to a really large hill that I could not see the other side. So I hollered up to Kate to wait. I told her to walk with me until I could see the other side. So she skipped up this huge hill - show off! I was so proud of her. She did such a good job! I really did hold her back. I need to find her a better running partner. Way to go Kate - you are a natural runner!

GOING UNPLUGGED

2010-03-04T14:10:00.003-05:00

So, as most of you have heard we are unplugged. We have a new family rule...no TV during the week and limited viewing on the weekend. I am not sure how this will all go down, but I have just been feeling very strongly that TV does not need to be a part of our daily lives. We will see how it works tonight. I did go by the library and got some books for the kids...including some origami and drawing books. I got out some old puzzles, and thank goodness the weather is nice, so outside is an option. I think we can handle today, no problem. I will keep you posted!

Dr Seuss Birthday Celebration

2010-03-02T09:44:00.003-05:00

The girl's school had a big celebration for Dr Seuss' birthday. The second grade performed Seussical the Musical. It was really cute. The Principal was the Cat in the Hat and the vice principal and the instructional coach were Things 1 & 2. The kids LOVED it! Here they are singing about green eggs and ham!

Kate listening to the speaking parts!

Happy birthday Dr Seuss! Thanks for all the fun silly books!

Happy Birthday Stevie!

2010-03-02T09:33:00.003-05:00

Stephen decided for his birthday he wanted to go tubing. So, we got the girls out of school early and drove for THREE hours to a tubing place in North Carolina called Hawks Nest. Here is the birthday boy all warm in his Christmas gifts - water proof hunting attire!

Here is one of the tubing runs - can you see the lanes? They had like 4 or 5 different runs with each having several lanes.

Here is the old sky lift and slope. They don't use it any more...Stephen said it was a horrible slope...the worse he's ever skied! No cameras are allowed on the tubing slopes and I don't' think I could have managed a camera anyway, as Clair had to ride with me! (Bowen rode with Stephen.) It took us awhile to get the hang of it, but once we did we had a blast...next year I think we might stay over night and get in a couple sessions! After our sessions we headed home. We stopped off in Ashville, NC for dinner at a yummy Italian place. Bowen told us it was the best day of his life...the girls agreed. I hope we have many more family days that our kids feel like are the best of their lives! Happy birthday Stephen!

Lots of Snow in SC!

2010-03-02T09:17:00.003-05:00

Snow was in the forecast for several days. I decided we need to buy a sled. So, the day before the snow I went and bought a sled. As soon as it started to snow the kids rushed out with the sled! They were SO excited, but alas...there was not enough snow. But they sure had fun! Clair as the snow starts to fall!

Kate in the new falling snow!

Bowen boy, so excited for the snow!

So that afternoon it snowed and snowed and snowed. After dinner the kids were dying to get out in the snow. So we bundled up and despite the fact that it was dark and night time we got to use our sled for the first time. We were outside for over an hour before we came in...we didn't want to keep the neighborhood up! The next morning we woke up to almost 4 in. of snow! That is a lot for SC! Behind our house in the woods, Stephen saw some deer.

Here is the proof of almost 4 in.

We joined several of our neighborhood friends on a nice sledding hill near our house.

So, I think I like the snow - if it happens only once or twice a year...and if it goes away quickly!

Career Day

2010-03-02T09:12:00.003-05:00

It was career day at school a few weeks ago. The kids are supposed to dress like what they want to be when they grow up... Kate the entomologist!

Clair the chef!

Bowen the artist? No, he actually informed me he wants to be a Fox News guy when he grows up! (Stephen is so happy!) But he drew this picture and wanted me to take a picture of it to post on the computer, so here it is!

More Photos from our Friend!

2010-03-02T09:03:00.001-05:00

Ice Ice Baby!

2010-02-01T09:51:00.002-05:00

So, in true SC fashion, we don't get snow, we get ice! The kid were so excited to go out and play! I kept telling them it isn't like snow...it is hard, sharp, and crunchy - you can't build snowmen or snowballs, or make snow ice! It is good for nothing! Well, I was wrong! I finally agreed to let them go out! Our sweet neighbors across the street were out looking for their teenagers. They had sleds and everything. Well, next thing I know Mrs. Laura was taking my kids sledding. She offered me a sled, but after breaking my nose last year sledding, I declined! But she spent the next 45 plus minutes going up and down the icy hill with my kids. Sadly, it wasn't until after I brought Kate in that I thought to get my camera...so I have no photos of Kate! :(
Here is Bowen, Clair and Mrs. Laura! That little sled was flying! My kids LOVED it! (The sled was Mr. Craig when he was a little boy! They don't make them like that anymore!) Here they are at the bottom of the hill!

Climbing the hill for the hundredth time. Shortly after this Bowen was ready to go in. But not Clair. Finally Stephen had to just say enough! I think she would have let Mrs. Laura sled with her all day!

For repayment I brought Craig and Laura (and Stephen) out some yummy tres leche carmel hot chocolate! Mrs Laura really earned hers! I am so grateful for such sweet neighbors!

Teaching Digital Immigrants how to Use the Blog

2010-01-29T23:16:00.003-05:00

Today I am teaching my parents how to post on the blog. This is the 2nd time I have taught them and I am hoping it isn't a case of "3rd times the charm." They think I am mocking them, but really I love them. :)

Above is a picture of the 2 illegal...I mean digital immigrants.

Smart Kiddos!

2010-01-22T11:12:00.003-05:00

I am just bursting with pride...the good kind...for how well my kids are doing in school. They are so well behaved, and are smart and work so hard. Kate made the principals honor roll again and also got back some great standardized tests scores. Clair also did really well (no true grades for Kindergarten) and is just really learning and growing SO much! And, if I had to give Bowen grades for being my little helper at home...of course he would be making all good marks too! Way to go Bright kids...you really are...well...BRIGHT! :)

Thanks to our good friend for this cute photo! I will make sure you all get copies soon!

A few other oldies

2010-01-14T23:00:00.002-05:00

My dad wanted me to post these other pictures from my cousin. I love them.

Call Charm X 5

2010-01-14T11:13:00.004-05:00

My cousin Theresa posted this picture of my dad (the youngest...at the far end) with 3 of his brothers and his dad. I have never seen this picture and I just love it. I figure since not every member of our family has a Facebook account that I would post this on the blog for others to enjoy too. Since the Call men in our family (even younger generations)all talk about Call Charm...I thought the title was suiting. What handsome men, but shhh don't them that...it will go to their heads! :)

Rockin' New Years Eve!

2010-01-07T10:12:00.003-05:00

We invited a few friends over (we had 13 people total) for a Beatles Rock Band New Years Eve party...or Ringo'ed in the new year! Get it Ringo...Beatles...ok...
So we set up a big screen in the sun room and KT and Creighton brought their projector and we rocked out and ate (we had SO much yummy food it was insane) for several hours. Here is one the the groups playing! Here is some talking and eating...

Here is the all girl PJ band!

Here is all the married ladies...all the married ladies...since they liked it then they went and put a ring on it! Oh oh!

It was a fun night! Happy New Year!

After Christmas Sunday

2010-01-01T13:06:00.002-05:00

The Sunday after Christmas I asked Stephen to take the kids outside and take some photos of them in their new clothes from Stephen's parents! They looked so cute! Stephen was so frustrated because they wouldn't all look at the camera! (He's just now figuring this out?) :)

See the kids far away....that's them! :) (Look at the poor wind blown greenery on the front of the house! The wind had been horrible!)

Up close, but once again, not all looking! But dang they are cute!

Christmas Day

2010-01-01T12:59:00.002-05:00

We had a great Christmas! Here are Bowen's gifts from Santa!
Here are Kate's (left) and Clair's (right) gifts from Santa!

Here are the three little monkey's waiting to see what Santa brought them!

Run, run, run to see what you got! Oma and Opa were left behind in the dust!

Kate so happy to get a DSi! (Sorry the picture is blurry...it shows her true joy!)

Bowen and his train and bike!

Clair and her beloved violin! She loves it so much!

Yoyo Stephen playing Bach's concerto in G minor!

Clair just loved her violin! She wants to play it all the time!

Look at those eyes! She can't get enough of it!

Bowen watching his train go through the tunnel!

It was a great day! The kids were happy, and the parents were happy! What a great day! The only thing that would have made it better would have been having Mimi, Papa, Emily, Joel, Britni, Jack, and Brooklyn with us!

Christmas Sunday

2010-01-01T12:43:00.004-05:00

The kids all got new clothes from Mimi and Papa. They were more than happy to show them off! Here is Clair in her lovely dress. Clair sang a duet with her Aunt Jessica at church! She sounded wonderful!

Kate really loved her pink dress!

My handsome GQ man!

Thanks for the cute clothes Mimi and Papa!

Gingerbread FHE

2010-01-01T12:43:00.001-05:00

A few weeks before Christmas we we made gingerbread house for family home evening! Kate working hard on her house!
Clair color coordinated her house!

Bowen got by with a little help from his dad!

Clair's finished house...personalized with a big "C"

Proud was so happy with his house...and with all the candy he got to eat!

Kate finished product! It was so messy, but the kids loved it!

Annual Gingerbread House Makin' Contest

2009-12-14T23:41:00.007-05:00

This year Brooklyn wanted to do something a little different with our tradition of making Gingerbread houses. We decided to get the boys a gingerbread train and the girls a traditional house. Sadly...both the train and the house had broken parts, so we had to do a little damage control.

Jack was really only interested in eating the candy, but the rest of us had a great time decorating.

Brooklyn and I declared the girls team the winners! :) I guess in fairness...you can be the judge!

Just Travelin' Around Part II

2009-12-14T22:02:00.031-05:00

If you remember...but won't hold it against you if you don't...in August I said to stay tune for me to post more about my travels, well I figure since it is almost the end of 2009...I probably should finally get to that post. Here is my travel log/diary from June until the present.

June saw me in lots of different places. I visited the beautiful island of Oahu. I love Hawaii. It is so gorgeous. This time I came in a day early and soaked up some sun. I actually soaked up so much that I had to buy some Aloe and soothe my poor skin. It was gorgeous and I fell asleep by the water...thus the sun burn. It is just so gorgeous...it always takes my breath away. This trip was with my boss, Gary Hunnel and of course the sales rep Liz. Gary had never been to Pearl Harbor, so she took us and I got this picture. Pearl Harbor is such a special place. There had recently been a Pearl Harbor survivor that had passed away. He had been buried at sea, with those that lost their lives that Dec. 7th day. It's always a spiritual experience visiting there.

I came home from Hawaii, only to turn around and go to our companies Sales meeting in St. Paul, MN. Big difference...Hawaii - Minnesota. I think I would rather have had out meeting in Hawaii. It wasn't in Decemeber...so that was good. Besides meetings and morning the loss of Michael Jackson (he died the 2nd day of our meetings) we went to a baseball game. It was a minor league team, but it was lots of fun. This team is know for all the side shows. People running around doing crazy things. We had fun.
We also went to this cool part by the Art Museum. It had the most amazing art. Here are my co-workers and I in the park.
This cherry on a spoon was the highlight of the park. It was amazing.

Next my travels took me to Washington DC. I love this city. It is so full of history and great things to do. I was there for a big show, where we were announcing a new product. Although I had to work long, hard hours I found some time to spend on the mall and as always it didn't disappoint.

The interesting part of the trip came when my co-worker and I went to the front of the White House. I was surprised by the number of people just "hanging" about outside, waving signs and such. As we were walking away I heard someone yell, "Mr. President." I turned around and at the front door of the White House was President Obama. He had actually answered his door. The crowd went wild. I told my co-worker, but he didn't believe me, until he turned around and saw it for himself. He then booked it to the front and started to climb up on the gate. Yes you heard me right, he started to climb on the gate. I heard the police say, "Hey you, get down" and then they started to head toward him. I was pretty sure I was going to have to bail him out of jail that night. Luckily he got down and we walked away. Didn't get a picture of the President (that's ok...not a fan - I want a President, not a celebrity!), but here is the White House before the celebrity came out to wave to his fan club.

I spent a week in July at home. Let me just say there is nothing like home, but it didn't last long. I scurried off to Utah. I got to attend my cousin Ben's wedding reception. I enjoyed spending time with my family and I still can't believe that little Ben is married. Good thing he found a sweet wife. I also did some work while I was in Utah. It was interesting to get to go meet with BYU. Gosh I love that University. You walk on campus and there is just this feeling. Maybe all people feel that way when they go visit "their" university...I know I do. It gives me warm fuzzies I tell ya!

I spent the first week of August in Anchorage, Alaska. What a beautiful place! I don' know if I would like it in the winter, but August was beautiful. It was also nice to get to spend some time with my cousin Mitch and his new bride Natalie. They were a great host and hostess. Besides working with a few districts, I got to do a lot of sight seeing too. Mitch took me out to a glacier. We took a boat out to it and it was amazing. We then hiked to a snow cave. Seeing as I was sure that the cave would come crashing down while I was in it, I wasn't brave enough to actually hike into the cave, but Mitch did.

Mitch and Natalie took me to this chocolate place, where they had the World's Largest Chocolate fountain. It took everything in my power not to dip my head in or just dive in completely. Yummy!

I also stopped by to see the Anchorage temple. It was such a cute little temple. I was sad that I didn't get to go in. It always makes me smile to see the Angel Moroni.

There were 2 things that I really wanted to see while in Alaska. The first one was wildlife. A moose would have been nice...maybe a bear. NOPE. I saw mountain goats hiking up the mountain as I drove down the road. Look close and you can see 2 white mountain goats.

The other thing I wanted to see was Sarah Palin. Sadly I got there right as she resigned as Governor...but I thought that might actually work in my favor, as I was going to Wasilla to work with the school district. My co-worker and I drove through Wasilla and we looked hard, but Sarah Palin was no where to be seen. Dang it! Good thing I got to see my cousins, otherwise I might have been disappointed in this Alaska trip! Just kidding...it was another gorgeous state to add to my growing list.

I went back to Utah, where I got to meet my cousin Brooke's new baby girl Meg. She is gorgeous and I loved holding her. She was still so fresh and I could tell how much her 3 big brothers love her. Gosh I wish I lived closer.

I also took an overnight trip to Nebraska. Nice place, but not really camera worthy.

I spent part of September in Arizona. I was lucky enough to get to spend an evening with my bestfriend, Kim. We always have a good time together. I was there for my regional meeting, so it was fun to see everyone from the Western region. We went to a Diamond Backs baseball game. We sat in the fly ball zone. I never have known a game to have so many fly balls. I spent the whole time ducking and covering my head to avoid brain damage! It was such an amazing stadium...so big. My friend/co-worker, Ann and I went all the way to the top of the stadium...to get the real view. It was amazing.

I spent the first part of October on vacation in South Carolina with my nieces, nephews and family for Kate's baptism. Ros posted earlier about our adventures this week. I was glad I got to go.

Well, I spent 2 days in Kansas. As I was taking off and snapping an "illegal" picture from the airplane, I thought...I'm not in Kansas anymore! :)

The last part of October and the first part of November I went to Denver and Vale, Colorado. It was beautiful, but I wasn't a big fan of the early snow they received. Seriously Denver shut down...really shouldn't they be use to the snow and have it down how to handle it. The Denver Convention Center has a big blue bear looking in the window. This is a picture, from my hotel room window.

After the cold in Colorado, I headed back to Hawaii. This was such a fun trip. I met up with my co-worker Deb. She is great and we had such a nice time. We spent a day on Oahu and then went to the Big Island of Hawaii. It was their rainy season...so it rained a lot, but we didn't let that stop us. We took Vetern's Day to see as much of the big island as we could. We drove up to an active volcano near Hilo. We went to some beautiful waterfalls and of course we fit in some shopping. We both wanted to take home some volcanic rocks, but the locals are so supersitious about that...so in fairness to their traditions and legends we left them behind. We heard some really scary stories about the bad luck people have had who take rocks off the island. Seeing as we both had to fly across a huge ocean to get home...we weren't willing to risk the bad luck. I didn't get to spend anytime on the beach and the rain/humidity made my hair a mess...no matter what I did, but I still love Hawaii. It was nice to get to see a different island.

A day trip to Dallas and a day trip to Austin ended my travel for the year. I thought you'd like to see a pile of all my hotel keys for this year. I counted them and there were well over 50...yikes!
Dorothy was right...there is no place like home! Phew...you are officially caught up on my life.

Kate's recital!

2009-12-03T11:33:00.003-05:00

So we all got to attend Kate's piano recital last week. She did a great job and performed two pieces! (WOW! I could never even remember one song!) Here is Kate with her sweet teacher Sis. Anderson!

This photo says it all...Bowen just going along with things, Kate annoyed, and Clair posing!

Never a good photo of all three!

Kate performing her first song!

Kate performing her second song!

Clair's Spa Party

2009-11-14T21:12:00.004-05:00

Clair had the most fun at her party tonight! We are blessed to have a sweet Aunt Beth with a cute little beauty shop just a few minutes from where we live! She was so kind to open her shop for Clair's party! We had three stations...
First, facials with cucumbers for our eyes! Second, nail painting with some pretty little nail art!

And third, a hair fixing station!
More facials...some of the girls love the cool cucumbers on their eyes...some didn't!

Stephen's mom also came up from Aiken and helped fix hair!

One of Aunt Beth's friends also came by and helped...just to be nice!

I just love these photos with the cucumbers on their eyes!

Clair getting her nails done! Look at those curls...she said, "I love the curls mom...it's the closest I've ever been to Goldy Locks!"

Aunt Beth putting some lip gloss on Clair.

The finished product...she looked SO darling...but I think she always looks darling!

The Elvis Turkey

2009-11-11T16:57:00.003-05:00

So Kate bought home a "Family Project" to disguise an outline of a turkey (that was minus the feathers) so it won't become turkey dinner. Kate called several people to get ideas on what to disguise her turkey as. Finally Aunt Emily gave her an idea she really liked...Turkey ELVIS!

Here is the story we wrote to go with it...

My Fireman, Cleopatra, and Tinker Bell

2009-10-29T20:43:00.004-05:00

My Annual Halloween Lunch

2009-10-24T14:50:00.003-05:00

Every year, for the past 3 years I have done a Halloween lunch with Brooklyn. This year was a little different...we invited Jack. We thought this would be the last year of "all girls," but we learned when we took Brooklyn to South Carolina and didn't take Jack, that he has this all figured out. Brooklyn and I decided that we have better invite him along. Especially since every time we talked about it, he would say, "Me too!" How can you turn that down.

I had a great time with a boxer and a bumble bee. They were darling in their costumes and ready to eat and have some fun.

This year I made Witch Tacos.

Fingers and fangs

Last but not least dessert of eyeballs and mini-pumpkins. The mini-pumpkins are made out of Circus Peanuts...which were my Grandmother's favorite. I have to say as I was making them, I thought of her.

We did some crafts also. I found some foam haunted houses, that they decorated with foam stickers. They loved it.

They made some foam Candy corn and made a picture with them.

Brooklyn did a weaving pumpkin project, while Jack and I did "6 Little Pumpkins" with pumpkin finger puppets. We also made Halloween cards for Mimi and Papa and the lunch ended with 2 games...hide the candy corn and a candy corn relay. That relay was especially funny because as Jack dropped the candy corn off his spook he would pick it up and just carry it in his hand to place it in the cup. What a silly boy. Of course, after the Haunted houses and the candy corn craft I forgot to take any other picutres. Oops! Sorry!

All in all we had a great time, only 1 thing was missing...the 3 Bright children. When are you guys going to live closer? Wish you could have come to our Halloween lunch.

Makin' Apple Pie with the Apples of My Eye

2009-10-24T13:52:00.013-05:00

As Ros mentioned earlier...while in South Carolina for "Fall 1/2 the family Fun Fest" we went to an apple orchard. Papa was very good to pick out 1/2 peck of apples. All the apples were up too high for us and the wasps/bees made the girls nervous. So all the responsibilty fell to papa. He got some great apples.

We brought our 1/2 peck home and made an Apple Pie Sunday afternoon.

Thanks to Aunt Rosalind's handy-dandy Apple/Corer/Slicer each of the kids got to put a little elbow grease into the pie. They loved using this semi-simple (not easy to clean) machine. They thought it was cool.

Here is Kate showing the long "string" of apple peel she got off her apple.

Papa insisted on eating his "string" of apple peel.

All our apples ready for the other ingredients.

Gooey apples and stuff ready to go into the pie.

Here's our pie ready to go in the oven.

Is it ready yet?

YUMMY, YUMMY...can't wait to get that Apple pie in my TUMMY!!

(Thanks Chy for sharing your pie receipe. It was easy and yummy.)

CRASH!

2009-10-19T21:01:00.003-05:00

We are all OK...but the brown van...or smilie as the kids call it...isn't doing so well! It took the police an HOUR to come and check things out and issue the OTHER lady a ticket! (And she wasn't wearing a seat belt...it really could have been horrible if Emily hadn't swerved and missed t-boning the driver side door!) Nooooooooooo...not the Clemson plate!!!!!!!!!!!!
The blinker was broke, but the headlight still worked!

It also messed up our power steering! It wasn't our fault, so now we wait for the insurance to get it all in order!

Kate's Baptism Day

2009-10-19T20:02:00.003-05:00

So the day started out just fine...we were on time. Everyone was happy, ready, and lookin' good! Then a little accident happened on the way to the church...see the other post...and so by the time we got to the church, it was 30 minutes after the baptism was supposed to start! So, I had no time for pre-baptism photos! :( I think dad got a few! So, my photos start after she was baptised... Kate in her special white dress...after she was baptised! (Notice her necklace from Uncle Joel, Aunt Britni, Brooklyn, & Jack and her charm bracelet from Mimi and Papa)
Kate with her Mimi and Oma!

Kate and her special friends that came to support her on her special day!

Kate and her cousins...this was the group that did a special musical number...

"Jesus Once Was a Little Child" It was darling and huge hit!

Kate and Bishop Coltrin!

Back home with Aunt Emily!

Kate with her Mimi and Papa!

The Bright family on Kate's special day!

We are so proud of Kate for taking this big step in her life! We know it is one of many good choices she will make in her life! We love you Kate!

Nivens Farm

2009-10-19T19:42:00.005-05:00

It was a perfect fall day and what better way to spend it than a trip to the apple/pumpkin farm! So, we loaded up two cars (we couldn't all fit in one) and took a little trip down some beautiful SC country roads! This is my all time favorite photo of the day! They are all saying their animal sound! SO CUTE!
Brookie-Boo jumping on the tubes!

Mimi and Papa watching the grand kids play!

Three jumping cousins!

Bowen on a pumpkin and next to the tractor!

Kate and her fall pose!

Brooklyn looking darling as usual!

Clair...in non outfit matching shoes! Her other shoes were "killing" her feet!

Papa picking the apples from the tops of the trees! That was all that was left!

Look at those bus riding babes!

Farm Papa and Mimi!...our own "American Gothic"!

Three cousins who love each other VERY much! It was such fun having Brooklyn along for the week! The next day we made a yummy apple pie...but that story and those photos are for Emily to post!

Kate turns Eight!

2009-10-14T15:48:00.003-05:00

Kate turned eight on October 5th. She asked for a Reese's Cup cake. So I made a devils food cake with peanut-butter frosting and crumbled Reese's Cups on top and around the bottom! It was SO yummy! Since Stephen was gone I wanted to do a little something special for her. We already had big plans for Saturday and her baptism. So, we had a few neighborhood friends and school friends over. It wasn't really a party, just cake and ice cream. Kate enjoyed having friends over and eating her yummy cake!

Honoring a Local Fallen Solider

2009-10-14T12:05:00.004-05:00

Clair's Primary Lesson

2009-09-13T16:39:00.003-05:00

Today in Primary Clair's class learned about prayer. The activity was to write and illustrate one thing to "thank" for and one thing to "ask" for. This is what Clair came up with! Seriously, I almost wet my pants right in the hallway at church. I laughed SO hard. Should I be worried my kid wants a limo? :)

Where were you when the world stop turning, that September Day?

2009-09-11T12:12:00.004-05:00

I can recall very clearly where I was Sept. 11, 2001. I was in my apartment in Provo, Utah getting ready for work. My mom called to tell me to turn on the news, because one of the World Trade Towers had been hit by a plane. We knew nothing at that time. As I am watching in horror, a plane crashes into the 2nd tower. I didn't want to leave my room. I wanted to stay and watch as the most horrible attack, in my history unfolded. By the time I got to the school the Pentagon was hit and shortly after the plane went down in Penn. What was happening? As I was starting class, my cell phone rang and it was my dad. He asked if I was ok, but there was something in his voice. I knew something wasn't right. Very choked up, he informed me that my cousin Chy had yet to get ahold of her husband Shane, who worked in Manhattan. I started crying. I spent the rest of the morning with a 3rd grade teacher waiting to hear about Shane, as she waited to hear about her daughter at the Pentagon. Lucky for us both, our loved ones were spared, but I can't help but think of the others who didn't make it that fearful day. I believe I cried every day for at least a month as I watched footage and heard stories. I still get emotional today. This day now is a symbol of what America is. We are a country of strong men and women who when the going gets tough they pitch in an help one another. We are surrounded by people who serve and sacrifice for people they don't know. The "first responders" that day and every day, amaze me. Thank you for your service. I loved the time that followed, although sad, it also brought a sense of patriotism, neighborly love, and kindness to our country. People were softer, more helpful, and tried to be better. How could you not, with all the amazing acts of kindness reported from that day.
I love the skyline of NYC, especially this time of year. It reminds me of the time when we, as American's pulled together.

I will never forget my first fall in NYC, as these beams of light towered in the sky, I was reminded of how thankful I am to live in this country and for the men and women who risk their lives for my freedoms, safty. and protect.

You've got to watch this video. It is a great way to remember what we should never forget!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkWc_EKLs4E

Soccer Stars

2009-09-09T18:33:00.003-05:00

The kids were all happy to start soccer club this fall. It is great because they go once a week for an hour and work on soccer skills, but there are no Saturday games! It is Bowen's first time and man was he excited! Here he is waiting to get his shirt! Look at those lips...I have to fight the urge to suck them off his cute little face!

Now he has his shirt, so they have to warm up!

Here he is practicing stopping the ball!

Now he is sitting in a large group listening to some instructions!

Bowen's soccer muscles!

Bowen went home with Stephen and the girls had their turn! Kate's group was the oldest. They played a cool game where they had to keep their ball in a certain area. If someone kicked it out, you were out!

It got down to Kate and this kid who looks to be about 5 years older than Kate. Needless to say, Kate's ball got kicked out...

Clair hooked on to this sweet little girl and she could have cared less about the soccer instruction going on around her. But here she and her "buddy" are getting divided into two different groups!

Clair stopping the ball! She's way past this...she informed me she already knew everything they talked about and was the best one in her group!

I have great memories of organized sports...I hope my kids will too!

Big Pre-School Boy

2009-09-09T18:17:00.002-05:00

Last week, Bowen started his pre-school group we are doing with some friends from church. He insisted I take some photos like we did of the girls on their first day of school. Here he is showing his Hulk muscles! He was SO excited and wanted to make sure I was going to drop him off and leave him. I hope he isn't to disappointed when it is our turn to host pre-school at our house! :)

Stone Mountain - On top!

2009-09-01T08:26:00.004-05:00

I just love spending time with my family! Saturday we boarded a charter bus at GE and headed to the big city - ATL - for a fun packed day at Stone Mountain. My two handsome men waiting for the sky tram!

My family all seated waiting to ride up the mountain!

At the top!

Kate posting on top with the wild flowers!

Clair posing on top with the wild flowers!

Bowen and a tree on top!

Kate and Bowen checking out the rock on top!

Kate on top of the world!

Clair on top of the world!

My two girls!

Family photo on top of stone mountain!

The kids!

The view from the top!

Kate!

It was great on top. It was cool and the wind was blowing slightly. But, we had to come down to enjoy the rest of the park.

Stone Mountain - Historical Houses

2009-09-01T07:33:00.004-05:00

Stone Mountain has this whole historical homes area set up. It is so nice and each house is filled with authentic furnishings. They also have folks dressed up in period dress and demonstrations. Here is the plantation house. It is beautiful! The kids loved the double staircase and Kate amazed the worker lady at the top by already knowing that the men and women went up the different sides of the stairs.

The cooking house had a beautiful heirloom flower garden.

Behind the cooking house was a large fruit & veggie garden. The worker was making paper from okra, corn husk, and cotton & helped the girls make bookmarks. Here they are taking the form out of the vat!

Now they are decorating their bookmarks with flower petals, string, and old sheet music!

Now they are using a sponge to get as much water out of the paper as possible!

The whole area had big beautiful trees that would have been great for climbing, but...

This house is over 200 years old.

The girls really loved this part of Stone Mountain. Kate is still talking about the houses and about what she learned.

Stone Mountain - Train and Barn of Fun

2009-09-01T07:03:00.005-05:00

After our trip to the top of Stone Mountain we went on a train around the base of the mountain! The conductor picked Bowen to call for "All aboard! over the station speakers" He did a great job and was very proud of himself. Wish I would have thought to taken a video clip of it! Here is a family photo the conductor took.

An old train car.

Stone Mountain from the train!

Close up!

Bowen fell asleep. The clickety-clack must have rocked him to sleep!

Poor sleepy boy!

After our train ride we went to lunch at the Mountain View Restaurant. This was the view from our table!

Our last stop of the day was in the newest attraction at Stone Mountain - The Great Barn. It is this huge play area for kids. It has interactive games, trampoline floors, and slides. This slide was the kids favorite! It was four stories tall!

Do you see little Bowen's orange hat heading down?

Here goes Kate!

It was a great day, but man we were SO tired! At least Stephen didn't have to drive home...the charter bus allowed him to sleep and by the time we got to Greenville, everyone was asleep but me!

Happy Birthday to the greatest Mimi Ever!

2009-08-28T15:53:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday Mimi! We love you!

Greenville Drive Baseball Game

2009-08-28T14:50:00.003-05:00

The kids all read (or listened to) 50 books this summer and earned a free ticket to the Greenville Drive baseball game! They were part of the pre-game "show". They got their names on the jumbo-tron... and got to walk around the field!

Here we are posing for the camera and daddy!

Bowen giving the baseball player a high five!

Bowen and Daddy watching the game!

Clair...all smiles!

Kate watching the game!

The kids with the field as a back drop!

Next to a photo of Shoeless Joe Jackson...the local baseball legend!

We didn't get to stay for the whole game...it was a school night! But the kids had fun and the Greenville Drive stadium is amazing!

Way to go kiddos!